“May you live in interesting times” might sound like a blessing, but in reality, this English expression is often used ironically. To live in interesting times means to live in times of trouble.
We can argue that history has shown that there is no such thing as untroubled times. In times of environmental crisis and a global pandemic, however, we tend to believe this is the most interesting times of all.
Either way, we can probably agree this is a very interesting time for design. Climate change is pushing us to redesign our way of living, working, producing, doing business and creating. On top of that, the global coronavirus outbreak makes it more evident how the environmental crisis and its consequences, such as air pollution, can impact our ability to live healthy lives.
Design has become a powerful tool, and it is not alone. We are witnessing times where design is walking hand in hand with science and art. In March the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, for instance, reached out to creative practitioners from across the world to apply for the Artist in Residence position. The residence provides the opportunity to explore what role art and culture can play in the creation of a future that is more inclusive, diverse, and distributed.
In June, during the ISOLA GOES DIGITAL event we came across so many talented designers who are working within circular economy principles, circular design strategies and blending these with art to raise awareness and to tackle global issues. Lithuanian material researcher and product designer Austeja Platukyte is one of them.
Austeja seeks to highlight the relevance of creative processes, to gain real experience in the development of new sustainable materials and adapt all her projects to contemporary art and design objects.
We have interviewed Austeja Platukyte to learn more about her research and work. You can read the full interview on ISOLA DESIGN MAGAZINE by clicking here. Enjoy!
